Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise ('curly-lapdog' in French) is a small, white companion dog with a history stretching back to the Mediterranean in the 13th and 14th centuries. Originally known as the Bichon Tenerife after the Canary Islands where it flourished, the breed became enormously fashionable in the courts of France, Spain and Italy in the 16th century and was a favourite of French royalty. After falling out of fashion, the breed was kept alive by street entertainers and circus performers before being revived as a companion and show dog in the 20th century. Under the Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC), the Bichon Frise is classified in Group 1 (Toys).

The Bichon Frise is a low-to-moderate exercise breed, well-suited to apartment living and less active households. Two short daily walks plus indoor play sessions provide adequate physical activity. The breed is intelligent, eager to please and responds well to positive reinforcement training — though house training can take longer than with some other breeds. The most significant daily care commitment is coat maintenance, which should begin as a puppy routine. Feed a quality small-breed diet in measured portions twice daily. Dental care should begin from puppyhood. Annual vet checks, parasite prevention and monitoring for allergies and skin health are important.

The Bichon Frise coat is high-maintenance despite minimal shedding. Daily brushing with a soft pin brush and metal comb is required — the curly coat tangles and mats rapidly, particularly in the armpits, behind the ears and around the legs. Professional grooming every four to six weeks is essential to maintain the characteristic rounded shape and prevent the coat becoming unmanageably dense. Many pet owners opt for a shorter trim to reduce daily maintenance. The white coat develops tear staining around the eyes — clean the eye area daily with a damp cloth and investigate underlying causes with your vet. Bathe every three to four weeks. Dental hygiene is critical — brush teeth regularly. Trim nails every three to four weeks. Check and clean ears weekly.

Socialisation is generally straightforward with this outgoing, sociable breed. Puppy school provides valuable foundational training. The Bichon can develop small-dog syndrome if boundaries are not consistently maintained — resist the temptation to excuse behaviours because of small size. Positive, consistent training from puppyhood produces a confident, well-mannered companion. The breed is generally good with children but small size warrants supervision with very young children.

Bichons are playful and curious and enjoy a variety of enrichment activities. Interactive games — gentle fetch, hide-and-seek, learning new tricks — provide mental stimulation and satisfy the breed's need for engagement. Puzzle feeders and treat-dispensing toys are well-received. Scent games and nose work are enjoyed. The Bichon's people-oriented nature means the most enriching activity is often time with its owner — training sessions, games and simple companionship. Rotate toys regularly to maintain novelty. Avoid extended isolation; this breed needs consistent social engagement to thrive.

Skin Allergies and Atopic Dermatitis: The Bichon Frise has a higher-than-average predisposition to skin allergies, which can cause itching, redness and recurrent skin infections. Environmental allergens (grass, dust mites, mould) and food allergies are both common triggers. A high-quality diet, regular coat maintenance and prompt veterinary attention for any persistent itching are important.

Dental Disease: Small breed predisposition to tartar accumulation and periodontal disease. Daily tooth brushing from puppyhood is the most effective prevention.

Patella Luxation: Kneecap dislocation common in small breeds; ranges from mild to requiring surgical correction. Source from health-screened breeders.

Bladder Stones: The Bichon Frise has an above-average predisposition to bladder stones; ensure adequate hydration and monitor for signs of straining or blood in urine.

Tear Staining: Common in the breed; daily eye cleaning and investigation of underlying causes with a vet are recommended.

Separation Anxiety: People-dependent breed prone to anxiety if left alone for extended periods.